Wearable electronic device including electrode

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a wearable electronic device. A wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise: a housing including a first housing portion corresponding to an ear and a second housing portion extending from the first housing portion; a frame including a first frame portion configured to be connectable to the housing and a second frame portion extending from the first frame portion in a direction away from the second housing portion and having at least a portion disposed to surround the ear; and an electrode assembly positioned in the housing or the frame and configured to detect a biometric signal, wherein the electrode assembly may comprise: a first electrode positioned in the first housing portion; a second electrode positioned in the second housing portion in a manner spaced apart from the first electrode and configured to detect the biometric signal; and a third electrode positioned in a manner spaced apart from the housing in the second frame portion and configured to detect a reference signal that can be compared with the bio-signal.

Description

Wearable electronic devices containing electrodes

[0001] Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to wearable electronic devices, for example, wearable electronic devices including electrodes.

[0002] Thanks to the advancement of electronic technology, various types of wearable electronic devices are becoming smaller and more functional.

[0003] Wearable electronic devices can collect a user's biometric information and transmit the collected biometric information to another electronic device. The wearable electronic device may include electrodes for collecting biometric information and a circuit board for processing the biometric information collected through the electrodes.

[0004] To enhance the biometric data collection capabilities of wearable electronic devices, it is necessary to optimize the placement of electrodes. Furthermore, the degree of freedom of the wearable electronic device structure is necessary to enhance user comfort and ensure adaptability to different body types.

[0005] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art in connection with the present disclosure.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable electronic device may include a housing including a first housing portion corresponding to an ear and a second housing portion extended from the first housing portion; a frame including a first frame portion configured to be connectable to the housing and a second frame portion extending from the first frame portion in a direction away from the second housing portion and arranged such that at least a portion surrounds the ear; and an electrode assembly positioned in the housing or the frame and configured to detect a biosignal, wherein the electrode assembly may include a first electrode positioned in the first housing portion; a second electrode positioned in the second housing portion and spaced apart from the first electrode and configured to detect the biosignal; and a third electrode positioned in the second frame portion and spaced apart from the housing and configured to detect a reference signal comparable to the biosignal.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable electronic device may include a housing; and an electrode assembly configured to detect a biosignal, wherein the electrode assembly may include a first electrode configured to be arranged to correspond to an ear; a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode in a first direction and configured to detect the biosignal; and a third electrode spaced apart from the first electrode in a second direction opposite to the first direction and configured to detect a reference signal comparable to the biosignal.

[0008] The above-described aspects or other aspects, configurations and / or advantages of one embodiment of the present disclosure may be further clarified by the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a drawing of a wearing state of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 3A is a drawing of a wearing state of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 3b is a drawing of a wearing state of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 3c is a drawing of a wearing state of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 4a is a conceptual diagram illustrating an electrode arrangement according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 4b is a drawing for explaining electrode arrangement according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 4c is a graph for explaining electrode arrangement according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 5 is a diagram of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 6 is a side view of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 7 is a part of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram of wearable electronic device components according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 9A is a drawing illustrating an operating state of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 9b is a drawing illustrating an operating state of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 9c is a drawing illustrating an operating state of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 10 is a side view of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 11A is a drawing illustrating an operating state of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 11b is a drawing illustrating an operating state of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 12A is a drawing illustrating an operating state of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 12b is a drawing illustrating an operating state of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 13A is a drawing illustrating an operating state of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 13b is a drawing illustrating an operating state of a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 14 is a diagram of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 15 is a diagram of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 16 is a part of a component of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 17A is a top view of a portion of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 17b is a rear view of a portion of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 18 is an exploded view of a portion of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 19 is a part of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 20 is a part of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 21 is a part of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 22a is a drawing illustrating an operating state of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 22b is a drawing illustrating an operating state of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 23A is a block diagram illustrating the operation of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 23b is a graph of waves measured in a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 23c is a graph of waves measured in a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 24 is a graph of waves measured in a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Throughout the attached drawings, similar reference numbers may be assigned to similar parts, components and / or structures.

[0047] The following description of the accompanying drawings may provide an understanding of various exemplary implementations of the present disclosure, including the claims and their equivalents. While the exemplary embodiments disclosed in the following description include numerous specific details to aid understanding, they are to be considered as one example of various exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations of the various implementations described herein may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0048] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their reference meanings and can be used to clearly and consistently describe one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various implementations of the disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes, not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the disclosure and its equivalents.

[0049] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms of "a," "an," and "the" should be understood to include plural meanings. Thus, for example, "a component surface" could be understood to include one or more of the surfaces of the component.

[0050] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)). The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of an electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations.According to one embodiment, as at least a part of data processing or calculation, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in the volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store the resulting data in the non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor), or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together therewith. For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0052] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, in the electronic device (101) itself where artificial intelligence is performed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0053] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0054] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0055] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0056] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0057] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0058] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), or output sound through an audio output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0059] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0060] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0061] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0062] A haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0063] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0064] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0065] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0066] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0067] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0068] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0069] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high frequency band.

[0070] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0071] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0072] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0073] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0074] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0075] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0076] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a state in which a wearable electronic device (200) is mounted on a user's ear (E). FIGS. 3a, 3b, and 3c are drawings of the wearable electronic device (200) mounted on a user's ear (E) viewed from different angles. The components described with reference to FIGS. 2, 3a, 3b, and 3c may be partly or entirely the same as the components described with reference to FIG. 1. The components described with reference to FIGS. 2, 3a, 3b, and 3c may be partly or entirely the same as the components described with reference to FIGS. 4a to 24.

[0077] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (200) may include a housing (210). The housing (210) may have a space therein. At least a portion of the housing (210) may be inserted into a user's ear (E). The housing (210) may be referred to as a "case." The housing (210) may be referred to as a "body." The housing (210) may be referred to as a "first part."

[0078] According to one embodiment, the housing (210) may include a first housing portion (211) and a second housing portion (212). The first housing portion (211) may be a portion of the housing (210) corresponding to the ear (E). The second housing portion (211) may be a portion of the housing (210) located on the outside of the ear (E). The first housing portion (211) and the second housing portion (212) may be integral. The second housing portion (212) may extend from the first housing portion (211).

[0079] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (200) may include a frame (220). The frame (220) may be coupled to a housing (210). The frame (220) may be detachably attached to the housing (210). The frame (220) may be arranged to surround an ear (E). The frame (220) may have a curved shape. The frame (220) may extend from the housing (210) to surround the ear (E). The frame (220) may be coupled to a second housing portion (212).

[0080] In one embodiment, the frame (220) may include a coupling portion (221). The coupling portion (221) may be coupled to the housing (210). The coupling portion (221) may be detachable from the housing (210). The coupling portion (221) may be referred to as a “first frame portion.”

[0081] In one embodiment, the frame (220) may include an extension portion (222). The extension portion (222) may extend from the joining portion (221). The extension portion (222) may extend in a curved manner. The extension portion (222) may be arranged to surround the ear (E). The extension portion (222) may be referred to as a "banding portion." The extension portion (222) may be referred to as a "second frame portion."

[0082] According to one embodiment, the frame (220) may include an edge portion (223). The edge portion (223) may form an end portion of the extension portion (222). The edge portion (223) may be referred to as a “third frame portion.”

[0083] According to one embodiment, the joining portion (221), the extension portion (222), and the edge portion (223) may be formed as an integral body. The frame (220) may be configured to be deformable. The frame (220) may include a material having elasticity. The frame (220) may be referred to as a "hanging portion." The frame (220) may be referred to as a "second part." The frame (220) may be referred to as a "hook."

[0084] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (200) may include an electrode assembly (230). The electrode assembly (230) may be disposed in a housing (210) or a frame (220). The electrode assembly (230) may be configured to detect a biosignal. For example, the electrode assembly (230) may be configured to detect brain waves. The electrode assembly (230) may include a plurality of electrodes (231, 232, 233). The plurality of electrodes (231, 232, 233) may be spaced apart from each other. The electrode assembly (230) may detect signals related to a biosignal from each of the plurality of electrodes (231, 232, 233).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the electrode assembly (230) may include a first electrode (231). The first electrode (231) may detect a first signal. The first electrode (231) may be referred to as a “ground electrode.” The first electrode (231) may be positioned at a location corresponding to the ear (E). The first electrode (231) may be positioned in the housing (210). The first electrode (231) may be positioned in the first housing portion (211).

[0086] According to one embodiment, the electrode assembly (230) may include a second electrode (232). The second electrode (232) may detect a second signal. The second signal may be an EEG signal detected at the location of the second electrode (232). The second electrode (232) may be referred to as an “active electrode.” The second electrode (232) may be positioned at a location spaced apart from the ear (E). The second electrode (232) may be positioned in the housing (210). The second electrode (232) may be positioned in the second housing portion (212). The second electrode (232) may be spaced apart from the first electrode (231).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the electrode assembly (230) may include a third electrode (233). The third electrode (233) may detect a third signal. The third signal may be an EEG signal detected at the location of the third electrode (233). The third electrode (233) may be referred to as a “reference electrode.” The third electrode (233) may be positioned at a location spaced apart from the ear (E). The third electrode (233) may be positioned on the frame (220). The third electrode (233) may be positioned on the extension portion (222). The third electrode (233) may be spaced apart from the first electrode (231). The third electrode (233) may be spaced apart from the second electrode (232).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the first, second, and third electrodes (231, 232, and 233) may be spaced apart from each other. The first electrode (231) may be positioned between the second electrode (232) and the third electrode (233). The first electrode (231) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the ear (E). The first electrode (231) may be in contact with the ear (E) to provide grounding to the wearable electronic device (200). However, the first electrode (231) may also be in contact with a component (e.g., the substrate (241) of FIG. 7) inside the wearable electronic device (200) to provide grounding to the wearable electronic device (200). The second electrode (232) may be positioned at a position spaced apart from the ear (E). The second electrode (232) may be positioned at a position adjacent to the face from the ear (E). The third electrode (233) may be positioned at a location spaced from the ear (E). The third electrode (233) may be positioned at a location adjacent to the back of the head from the ear (E). The locations of the second electrode (232) and the third electrode (233) may be switched with each other. For example, the second electrode (232) may be positioned at a location adjacent to the back of the head from the ear (E), and the third electrode (233) may be positioned at a location adjacent to the face from the ear (E).

[0089] Fig. 4a is a conceptual diagram illustrating body parts of a user on which each of a plurality of electrodes (231, 232, 233) can be placed. Fig. 4b is a table illustrating the intensity of brain wave signals when a plurality of electrodes (231, 232, 233) are placed on different body parts illustrated in Fig. 4a. Fig. 4c is a graph comparing brain wave signals when a user closes and opens their eyes. The components described with reference to Figs. 4a to 4c may be partly or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 1 to 3c. The components described with reference to Figs. 4a to 4c may be partly or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 5 to 24.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the plurality of electrodes (231, 232, 233) may be arranged at different positions with respect to the ear (E). For example, each of the plurality of electrodes (231, 232, 233) may be arranged at any one of the first to twelfth positions (P1 to P12). Depending on the arrangement positions of the plurality of electrodes (231, 232, 233), the intensity of the brain wave signal detected by the electrode assembly (230) may vary. Depending on the combination of the arrangement positions of the second electrode (232) and the third electrode (233), the intensity of the brain wave signal detected by the electrode assembly (230) may vary. For example, the intensity of the brain wave signal detected by the electrode assembly (230) may be the greatest when the second electrode (232) is placed at the fourth position (P4) and the third electrode (233) is placed at the first position (P1). For example, the intensity of the brain wave signal detected by the electrode assembly (230) may be greater when the second electrode (232) is placed at the fifth position (P5) and the third electrode (233) is placed at the second position (P2) than when the third electrode (233) is placed at the first position (P1).

[0091] According to one embodiment, each of the plurality of electrodes (231, 232, 233) may be positioned at any one of first to twelfth positions (P1 to P12). The first position (P1) may be the mastoid process. The second position (P2) may be the mastoid process. The third position (P3) may be the temporal bone. The fourth position (P4) may be the zygomatic process. The fifth position (P5) may be the zygomatic process. The sixth position (P6) may be the outer conch. The seventh position (P7) may be the earlobe. The eighth position (P8) may be the outer conch. The ninth position (P9) may be the tragus. The tenth position (P10) may be the inner conch. The eleventh position (P11) may be the anti-tragus. The twelfth position (P12) may be the ear lobe.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the first electrode (231) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the ear (E). The first electrode (231) may be positioned at any one of the ninth position (P9), the tenth position (P10), or the eleventh position (P11). The second electrode (232) may be positioned in a first direction with respect to the first electrode (231). For example, the second electrode (232) may be positioned at a position facing the face with respect to the first electrode (231). The second electrode (232) may be positioned at the fourth position (P4) or the fifth position (P5). The second electrode (232) may be positioned at the zygomatic process. The third electrode (233) may be positioned in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the first electrode (231). For example, the third electrode (233) may be placed at a position facing the back of the head with respect to the first electrode (231). The third electrode (233) may be placed at the first position (P1) or the second position (P2). The third electrode (233) may be placed at the mastoid process. The second electrode (232) and the third electrode (233) may be placed at opposite positions with respect to the ear (E). For example, the second electrode (232) may be placed at a position facing the face with respect to the ear (E), and the third electrode (233) may be placed at a position facing the back of the head with respect to the ear (E).

[0093] According to one embodiment, the intensity of brain waves detected by the electrode assembly (230) may be greater when the user's eyes are closed than when they are open. For example, referring to area A of FIG. 4c, it can be confirmed that the first intensity of brain waves on the brain wave intensity line (L1) when the user's eyes are open is less than the second intensity of brain waves on the brain wave intensity line (L2) when the user's eyes are closed. FIG. 4b is a table comparing the intensity of brain waves by combining the positions of the second electrode (232) and the third electrode (233) differently when the user's eyes are closed. Referring to FIG. 4b, it can be confirmed that brain waves are measured most strongly when the second electrode (232) is placed at the first position (P1) and the third electrode (233) is placed at the fourth position (P4). Also, referring to FIG. 4b, it can be confirmed that brain waves are measured strongly even when the second electrode (232) is placed at the second position (P2) and the third electrode (233) is placed at the fifth position (P5).

[0094] FIG. 5 is a drawing of a wearable electronic device (200). FIG. 6 is a side view of the wearable electronic device (200) with some components (e.g., a side wall of the housing (210)) removed. FIG. 7 is a drawing showing components disposed inside the housing (210) separated. FIG. 8 is a drawing explaining the connection relationship between components of the wearable electronic device (200). The components described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 8 may be partly or entirely the same as the components described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4c. The components described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 8 may be partly or entirely the same as the components described with reference to FIGS. 9a to 24.

[0095] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (200) may include a housing (210) and a frame (220). The frame (220) may be coupled to the housing (210). The wearable electronic device (200) may include a first electrode (231), a second electrode (232), and a third electrode (233). The first, second, and third electrodes (231, 232, 233) may be disposed in the housing (210) or the frame (220).

[0096] According to one embodiment, the housing (210) may include a first housing portion (211) and a second housing portion (212). The first housing portion (211) and the second housing portion (212) may be integral. The frame (220) may be coupled to the first housing portion (211). The first electrode (231) may be positioned in the first housing portion (211). The second electrode (232) may be positioned in the second housing portion (212).

[0097] In one embodiment, the housing (210) may include a port (213). The port (213) may protrude from the first housing portion (211). The housing (210) may include an eartip (215). The eartip (215) may be coupled to the port (213). The eartip (215) may be inserted into the user's ear (E). The housing (210) may include a protrusion (214). The protrusion (214) may protrude from the first housing portion (211). A frame (220) may be coupled to the protrusion (214). The housing (210) may include a case (216). The case (216) may have a space therein. Components of a wearable electronic device (200) (e.g., a circuit board (241), a battery (242), a signal processing device (243)) may be accommodated inside a case (216). The housing (210) may include an insertion portion (2121). The insertion portion (2121) may be formed in a second housing portion (212). The second electrode (232) may be coupled to the insertion portion (2121).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the frame (220) may include a joining portion (221), an extension portion (222), and an edge portion (223). A third electrode (233) may be disposed on the extension portion (222). The third electrode (233) may be disposed to be movable along the extension direction of the extension portion (222). The frame (220) may include a hinge (224). The hinge (224) may be disposed between the joining portion (221) and the extension portion (222). The hinge (224) may rotatably connect the joining portion (221) and the extension portion (222). The extension portion (222) may be rotatably coupled to the joining portion (221).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (200) may include a circuit board (241). The circuit board (241) may be disposed inside the case (216). The circuit board (241) may receive a biosignal from the electrode assembly (230). For example, a first processor (2411) disposed on the circuit board (241) may receive a biosignal from the electrode assembly (230). The circuit board (241) may transmit the biosignal transmitted from the electrode assembly (230) to an electronic device (e.g., a mobile device) external to the wearable electronic device (200). For example, a second processor (2412) disposed on the circuit board (241) may transmit the biosignal transmitted from the electrode assembly (230) to an electronic device (e.g., a mobile device) external to the wearable electronic device (200). The circuit board (241) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), and a communication module (190) described with reference to FIG. 1. The circuit board (241) may transmit a biosignal transmitted from the electrode assembly (230) to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102, 104) of FIG. 1), a server (108), or a program (140). For example, the second processor (2412) may transmit a biosignal transmitted from the electrode assembly (230) to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102, 104) of FIG. 1), a server (108), or a program (140).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the circuit board (241) may include a first processor (2411). The first processor (2411) may receive biosignals from the electrode assembly (230). The first processor (2411) may be referred to as an "application processor." The description of the first processor (2411) may be identical to the description of the processor (120) described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the circuit board (241) may include a second processor (2412). The second processor (2412) may transmit the biosignal transmitted from the electrode assembly (230) to an electronic device (e.g., a mobile device) external to the wearable electronic device (200). The second processor (2412) may be referred to as a “communication processor.” The description of the second processor (2412) may be identical to the description of the communication module (190) described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (200) may include a battery (242). The battery (242) may be disposed inside the case (216). The battery (242) may supply power to the circuit board (241) and the electrode assembly (230). The battery (242) may supply power to the signal processing device (243). The battery (242) may supply power to the first processor (2411) and the second processor (2412).

[0103] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (200) may include a signal processing device (243). The signal processing device (243) may be disposed inside the case (216). The signal processing device (243) may be electrically connected to a circuit board (241). The signal processing device (243) may be connected to an electrode assembly (230). The signal processing device (243) may receive information regarding a biosignal from each of the first electrode (231), the second electrode (232), and the third electrode (233). The first electrode (231) may transmit first information regarding the biosignal. The first electrode (231) may provide a ground to the electrode assembly (230). The second electrode (232) may transmit second information regarding the biosignal. The third electrode (233) may transmit third information regarding the biosignal. The third information may be a reference signal comparable to the second information transmitted through the second electrode (232). The signal processing device (243) may generate a single biosignal based on information about biosignals transmitted from each of the first electrode (231), the second electrode (232), and the third electrode (233). The single biosignal may be a signal about brain waves. The signal processing device (243) may generate the single biosignal by comparing the second information transmitted from the second electrode (232) with the third information transmitted from the third electrode (233). For example, the signal processing device (243) may generate the single biosignal by subtracting the third information transmitted from the third electrode (233) (e.g., the brain wave signal at the location of the third electrode (233)) from the second information transmitted from the second electrode (232) (e.g., the brain wave signal at the location of the second electrode (232). The above single biosignal may also be generated by the first processor (2411). For example, the first processor (2411) may generate the single biosignal in the same manner as the method of generating the above single biosignal of the signal processing device (243) described above.The signal processing device (243) can transmit the biosignal to the circuit board (241). The signal processing device (243) can transmit the biosignal to the first processor (2411). The signal processing device (243) can transmit the biosignal to the second processor (2412). The second information transmitted from the second electrode (232) may be a "first biosignal." The third information transmitted from the third electrode (233) may be a "second biosignal."

[0104] FIG. 9A is a drawing of a wearable electronic device (200) before a second electrode (232) is coupled. FIG. 9B is a drawing of a state in which a second electrode (232) is coupled to a first position of a housing (210). FIG. 9C is a drawing of a state in which a second electrode (232) is coupled to a second position of a housing (210). The components described with reference to FIGS. 9A to 9C may be partially or entirely the same as the components described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8. The components described with reference to FIGS. 9A to 9C may be partially or entirely the same as the components described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 24.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the housing (210) may include an insertion portion (2121). The insertion portion (2121) may be formed in the second housing portion (212). The insertion portion (2121) may include a plurality of insertion portions (2121a, 2121b, 2121c). The plurality of insertion portions (2121a, 2121b, 2121c) may be spaced apart from each other. The wearable electronic device (200) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may adjust the coupling position of the second electrode (232) by coupling the second electrode (232) to any one of the plurality of insertion portions (2121a, 2121b, 2121c). For example, referring to FIG. 9b, the second electrode (232) may be positioned at a corner portion of the housing (210) by being coupled to the first insertion portion (2121a). For example, referring to FIG. 9c, the second electrode (232) may be positioned at an inner side rather than at a corner portion of the housing (210) by being coupled to the second insertion portion (2121b).

[0106] Fig. 10 is a side view of a wearable electronic device (200). The components described with reference to Fig. 10 may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 1 to 9c. The components described with reference to Fig. 10 may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 11a to 24.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the second housing portion (212) can extend obliquely with respect to the first housing portion (211). The port (213) can protrude from the first housing portion (211) in a first direction, and the second housing portion (212) can extend obliquely along the first direction from the first housing portion (211). The second housing portion (212) can be oblique with respect to the extension direction of the first housing portion (211).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the second housing portion (212) may include a second-first housing portion (2122) and a second-second housing portion (2123). The second-first housing portion (2122) may extend obliquely from the first housing portion (211). The second-second housing portion (2123) may extend obliquely from the second-first housing portion (2122). An angle (A1) at which the second-first housing portion (2122) is inclined with respect to the first housing portion (211) may be greater than an angle (A2) at which the second-second housing portion (2123) is inclined with respect to the first housing portion (211). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable electronic device (200) has a second housing portion (212) that extends obliquely toward the face of a human body, and a second electrode (232) is disposed on the obliquely extended second housing portion (212), thereby improving the wearing comfort of the wearable electronic device (200) and enhancing the detection reliability of the second electrode (232).

[0109] Fig. 11a is a diagram of a first operating state of a wearable electronic device (200). Fig. 11b is a diagram of a second operating state of a wearable electronic device (200). The components described with reference to Figs. 11a and 11b may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 1 to 10. The components described with reference to Figs. 11a and 11b may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 12a to 24.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the third electrode (233) can be movably arranged on the frame (220). The third electrode (233) can be rotated along the periphery of the frame (220). The third electrode (233) can be movably coupled to an extension portion (222) of the frame (220). The third electrode (233) can rotate from the first operating state of FIG. 11A to the second operating state as shown in FIG. 11B along the R direction. The wearable electronic device (200) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can adjust the position of the third electrode (233) according to the user's skull structure by changing the position of the third electrode (233) through rotation (R).

[0111] Fig. 12a is a diagram of a first operating state of a wearable electronic device (200). Fig. 12b is a diagram of a second operating state of a wearable electronic device (200). The components described with reference to Figs. 12a and 12b may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 1 to 11b. The components described with reference to Figs. 12a and 12b may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 13a to 24.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the third electrode (233) can be movably arranged on the frame (220). The third electrode (233) can move along the extension direction of the frame (220). The third electrode (233) can be movably coupled to the extension portion (222) of the frame (220). The third electrode (233) can move from the second position (S2) of FIG. 12B toward the first position (S1) of FIG. 12A along the S direction. The wearable electronic device (200) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can adjust the position of the third electrode (233) according to the user's skull structure by changing the position of the third electrode (233) through movement (S).

[0113] Fig. 13a is a diagram of a first operating state of a wearable electronic device (200). Fig. 13b is a diagram of a second operating state of a wearable electronic device (200). The components described with reference to Figs. 13a and 13b may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 1 to 12b. The components described with reference to Figs. 13a and 13b may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 14 to 24.

[0114] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the frame (220) may be rotatably arranged with respect to the housing (210). The frame (220) may include a hinge (224), and the hinge (224) may rotatably connect the coupling portion (221) and the extension portion (222). The extension portion (222) may rotate about the hinge (224) from the first operating state of FIG. 13A to the second operating state of FIG. 13B. The third electrode (233) may be coupled to the extension portion (222) and may rotate together with the extension portion (222). The wearable electronic device (200) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may adjust the shape of the frame (220) according to the user's skull structure by changing the shape of the frame (220) through the rotation of the extension portion (222).

[0115] Fig. 14 is a diagram of a wearable electronic device (200). The components described with reference to Fig. 14 may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 1 to 13b. The components described with reference to Fig. 14 may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 15 to 24.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the material of the first electrode (231) and the material of at least a portion of the second electrode (232) may be different. The material of the first electrode (231) and the material of at least a portion of the third electrode (233) may be different. The first electrode (231) may include a conductive silicone material. The second electrode (232) may include a metal material. The third electrode (233) may include a metal material.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the second electrode (232) may include a second electrode holder (2321) and a second electrode portion (2322). The second electrode holder (2321) may be coupled to the housing (210). The second electrode holder (2321) may include a pin (not shown) that is inserted into an insertion portion (e.g., the insertion portion (2121) of FIGS. 9A to 9C) of the housing (210). The second electrode holder (2321) may include a plastic material or a silicone material. The second electrode portion (2322) may include a material different from the material of the second electrode holder (2321). For example, the second electrode portion (2322) may include a gold material (e.g., 24k). The second electrode portion (2322) may be configured to come into contact with the skin of a human body and detect a biosignal.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the third electrode (233) may include a third electrode holder (2331) and a third electrode portion (2332). The third electrode holder (2331) may be coupled to the frame (220). The third electrode holder (2331) may include a hook coupled to an extension portion (222) of the frame (220). The third electrode holder (2331) may include a plastic material or a silicone material. The third electrode portion (2332) may include a material different from the material of the third electrode holder (2331). For example, the third electrode portion (2332) may include a gold material (e.g., 24k). The third electrode portion (2332) may be configured to come into contact with the skin of a human body and detect a biosignal.

[0119] FIG. 15 is a diagram of a wearable electronic device (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the frame (320) of the wearable electronic device (300) separated. FIG. 17a is a top view of the wearable electronic device (300). FIG. 17b is a rear view of the wearable electronic device (300). The components described with reference to FIGS. 15 to 17b may be partly or entirely the same as the components described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14. The components described with reference to FIGS. 15 to 17b may be partly or entirely the same as the components described with reference to FIGS. 18 to 24.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (300) may include a housing (310), a frame (320), and an electrode assembly (330). The description of the housing (310) may be applied in the same manner as the description of the housing (210) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14 . The description of the frame (320) may be applied in the same manner as the description of the frame (220) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14 . The description of the electrode assembly (330) may be applied in the same manner as the description of the electrode assembly (230) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14 .

[0121] According to one embodiment, the housing (310) may include a first housing portion (311) and a second housing portion (312). A frame (320) may be coupled to the first housing portion (311). The frame (320) may be detachable from the first housing portion (311). The second housing portion (312) may be movably connected to the first housing portion (311). A first electrode (331) may be disposed in the first housing portion (311). A second electrode (332) may be disposed in the second housing portion (312).

[0122] According to one embodiment, the housing (310) may include a port (313) and an eartip (315). The port (313) may protrude from the first housing portion (311), and the eartip (315) may be coupled to the port (313).

[0123] In one embodiment, the housing (310) may include a recess (314). A frame (320) may be coupled to the recess (314). The recess (314) may include a first recess (3141) and a second recess (3142). The first recess (3141) and the second recess (3142) may be formed by being recessed into the first housing portion (311). The frame (320) may be coupled to either the first recess (3141) or the second recess (3142).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the frame (320) may include a joining portion (321), an extension portion (322), and an edge portion (323). The description of the joining portion (321), the extension portion (322), and the edge portion (323) may be identical to the description of the portions described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14 (e.g., the joining portion (221), the extension portion (222), and the edge portion (223)). The third electrode (333) may be disposed in the frame (320). The third electrode (333) may be located in the edge portion (323). The frame (320) may include a frame pin (3211). The frame pin (3211) may be disposed in the joining portion (321). The frame pin (3211) may be coupled to a recess (314) of the housing (310). The housing (310) may include a pin insertion portion into which a frame pin (3211) is inserted.

[0125] Fig. 18 is an exploded view of the housing (310) of the wearable electronic device (300). Fig. 19 is a view of the second housing (318). Fig. 20 is a view of the first housing (317). Fig. 21 is a view of the second housing portion (312). Fig. 22a is a view of the first operating state of the wearable electronic device (300). Fig. 22b is a view of the second operating state of the wearable electronic device (300). The components described with reference to Figs. 18 to 22b may be partly or entirely the same as the components described with reference to Figs. 1 to 17b. The components described with reference to Figs. 18 to 22b may be partly or entirely the same as the components described with reference to Figs. 23a to 24.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the housing (310) may include a case (316), a first housing (317), a second housing (318), and a second housing portion (312). The description of the case (316) may be identical to the description of the case (216) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14. For example, components described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14 (e.g., a circuit board (241), a battery (242), a signal processing device (243)) may be arranged inside the case (316).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the first housing portion (311) may include a case (316), a first housing (317), and a second housing (318). The first housing portion (311) may be an assembly of the case (316), the first housing (317), and the second housing (318). The second housing portion (312) may be movably coupled to the first housing portion (311).

[0128] According to one embodiment, the first housing (317) and the second housing (318) can be coupled to each other. The case (316) can be placed between the first housing (317) and the second housing (318).

[0129] According to one embodiment, the first housing (317) may include a first body (3171) and first rails (3172, 3173). The first rails (3172, 3173) may be formed by being recessed into the first body (3171). The first rails (3172, 3173) may include a first-first rail (3172) and a first-second rail (3173) that are spaced apart from each other. At least a portion of the second housing portion (312) may be movably arranged on the first rails (3172, 3173).

[0130] According to one embodiment, the second housing (318) may include a second body (3181) and second rails (3182, 3183). The second rails (3182, 3183) may be formed by being recessed into the second body (3181). The second rails (3182, 3183) may include a second-first rail (3182) and a second-second rail (3183) that are spaced apart from each other. At least a portion of the second housing portion (312) may be movably arranged on the second rails (3182, 3183).

[0131] According to one embodiment, the first housing portion (311) may include a first magnet (319). The first magnet (319) may be disposed on a first rail (3172, 3173). The first magnet (319) may include a first-first magnet (3191) disposed on the first-first rail (3172) and a first-second magnet (3192) disposed on the first-second rail (3173).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the first-first magnet (3191) may include a first-first leading magnet (3191a) and a first-first trailing magnet (3191b). The first-first leading magnet (3191a) and the first-first trailing magnet (3191b) may be spaced apart from each other in the extension direction of the first-first rail (3172). The first-second magnet (3192) may include a first-second leading magnet (3192a) and a first-second trailing magnet (3192b). The first-second leading magnet (3191a) and the first-second trailing magnet (3191b) may be spaced apart from each other in the extension direction of the first-second rail (3173). The first magnet (319) may include a first leading magnet (3191a, 3192a) and a first trailing magnet (3191b, 3192b).

[0133] According to one embodiment, the second housing portion (312) may include a second magnet (3129). The second housing portion (312) may include a first portion (3121) movably disposed on a first-first rail (3172) and a second portion (3122) movably disposed on a first-second rail (3173). The second housing portion (312) may include a bending portion (3123) connecting the first portion (3121) and the second portion (3122). The second electrode (332) may be disposed on the bending portion (3123). The second magnet (3129) may be disposed on each of the first portion (3121) and the second portion (3122). The second magnet (3129) may include a second-first magnet (3129a) disposed in the first part (3121) and a second-second magnet (3129b) disposed in the second part (3122).

[0134] According to one embodiment, the second housing portion (312) can be movably arranged with respect to the first housing portion (311). The first and second portions (3121, 3122) of the second housing portion (312) can be movably arranged between the first rail (3172, 3173) and the second rail (3182, 3183).

[0135] According to one embodiment, the second housing portion (312) can move by a distance (M) between the first leading magnet (3191a, 3192a) and the first trailing magnet (3191b, 3192b). The second magnet (3129) can move between the first leading magnet (3191a, 3192a) and the first trailing magnet (3191b, 3192b). The second magnet (3129) can form a magnetic force with the first leading magnet (3191a, 3192a) or the first trailing magnet (3191b, 3192b). The second magnet (3129) can form an attractive force with the first leading magnet (3191a, 3192a) at a position corresponding to the first leading magnet (3191a, 3192a). The second magnet (3129) can form an attractive force with the second trailing magnet (3191b, 3192b) at a position corresponding to the first trailing magnet (3191b, 3192b). For example, in a state such as FIG. 22a, the 2-1 magnet (3129a) can be positioned corresponding to the 1-1 leading magnet (3191a), and the 2-2 magnet (3129b) can be positioned corresponding to the 1-2 leading magnet (3192a). For example, in a state such as FIG. 22b, the 2-1 magnet (3129a) can be positioned to correspond to the 1-1 rear magnet (3191b), and the 2-2 magnet (3129b) can be positioned to correspond to the 1-2 rear magnet (3192b). The second housing portion (312) can be fixed to the first housing portion (311) by the attractive force between the first magnet (319) and the second magnet (3129).

[0136] FIG. 23A is a control block diagram of a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 23B is a graph of brain waves detected when the non-wearing determination (403) is made as illustrated in FIG. 23A. FIG. 23C is a graph of brain waves detected when the wearing determination (402) is made as illustrated in FIG. 23A. The components described with reference to FIGS. 23A to 23C may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 22B. The components described with reference to FIGS. 23A to 23C may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to FIG. 24.

[0137] According to one embodiment, a method for controlling a wearable electronic device (200, 300) may include an operation (401) of determining whether noise occurs in a signal detected through an electrode assembly (230, 330). A method for controlling a wearable electronic device (200, 300) may include an operation (403) of determining a state of the wearable electronic device (200, 300) as non-mounted. A method for controlling a wearable electronic device (200, 300) may include an operation (402) of determining a state of the wearable electronic device (200, 300) as mounted. When there is noise in a signal detected through an electrode assembly (230, 330), the wearable electronic device (200, 300) may determine the state of the wearable electronic device (200, 300) as non-mounted. When there is no noise in the signal detected through the electrode assembly (230, 330), the wearable electronic device (200, 300) can be judged as being equipped.

[0138] Referring to FIGS. 23b and 23c, when the amplitude (D1) from the baseline (BL) to the high point (M1) of the wave detected through the electrode assembly (230, 330) is greater than the preset high point limit value (BL1), the wearable electronic device (200, 300) can determine that noise has occurred. When the amplitude (D2) from the baseline (BL) to the low point (M2) of the wave detected through the electrode assembly (230, 330) is greater than the preset low point limit value (BL2), the wearable electronic device (200, 300) can determine that noise has occurred. When the amplitude from the baseline (BL) to the high point (M1) of the wave detected through the electrode assembly (230, 330) is less than the preset high point limit value (BL1), the wearable electronic device (200, 300) can determine that there is no noise. When the amplitude from the baseline (BL) to the low point (M2) of the wave detected through the electrode assembly (230, 330) is less than the preset low point limit value (BL2), the wearable electronic device (200, 300) can determine that there is no noise. The amplitude (D1) for the high point (M1) illustrated in FIG. 23b may be greater than the high point limit amplitude value (D3) illustrated in FIG. 23c. The amplitude (D2) for the low point (M2) shown in Fig. 23b may be greater than the low point limit amplitude value (D4) shown in Fig. 23c.

[0139] Figure 24 is an example of a graph measuring changes in brain waves over time. The components described with reference to Figure 24 may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figures 1 to 23c.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the change in brain waves measured through the electrode assembly (230, 330) may increase when the user closes his or her eyes. For example, when the user closes his or her eyes while keeping his or her eyes open, the brain waves may change as shown in the multiple regions (N1, N2, N3, N4, N5) illustrated in FIG. 24. The first processor (e.g., the first processor (2411) of FIGS. 5 to 8) may determine that the user has his or her eyes closed when the amount of change in brain waves exceeds a preset reference value. The second processor (e.g., the second processor (2412) of FIGS. 5 to 8) may transmit information about the state of the user's eyes being closed to an external device (e.g., the electronic device (102, 104) of FIG. 1) when the amount of change in brain waves exceeds a preset reference value. A wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure transmits only information about brain waves to an external device (e.g., the electronic device (102, 104) of FIG. 1), and the external device (102, 104) can also determine whether the user's eyes are closed.

[0141] Wearable electronic devices are worn on the user's body and can collect biometric information. Wearable electronic devices are attached to the user's ears and can transmit sound information to the user's ears and can also measure brain waves. Wearable electronic devices contain multiple electrodes for collecting biometric information, and the accuracy of the biometric information varies depending on the placement of the electrodes.

[0142] The problem to be solved in the present disclosure may be to increase the reliability of biometric information collected through a wearable electronic device.

[0143] The problem to be solved in the present disclosure may be to improve the wearing comfort of a wearable electronic device on the human body.

[0144] The problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be determined in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0145] An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can increase the reliability of biometric information collected through an electrode assembly by adjusting the placement position of the electrode assembly.

[0146] An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can improve the wearing comfort of a wearable electronic device by configuring the shape of a housing and a frame to be changeable.

[0147] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0148] A wearable electronic device (e.g., 200, 300 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing (e.g., 210 of FIGS. 1 to 24) including a first housing portion corresponding to an ear (e.g., 211 of FIGS. 1 to 24) and a second housing portion (e.g., 212 of FIGS. 1 to 24) extending from the first housing portion (e.g., 211 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0149] A wearable electronic device (e.g., 200, 300 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a frame (e.g., 220 of FIGS. 1 to 24) including a first frame portion (e.g., 221 of FIGS. 1 to 24) configured to be connectable to the housing (e.g., 210 of FIGS. 1 to 24) and a second frame portion (e.g., 222 of FIGS. 1 to 24) extending away from the first frame portion (e.g., 221 of FIGS. 1 to 24) and arranged such that at least a portion of the second frame portion (e.g., 212 of FIGS. 1 to 24) surrounds the ear.

[0150] A wearable electronic device (e.g., 200, 300 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an electrode assembly (e.g., 230 of FIGS. 1 to 24) positioned in the housing (e.g., 210 of FIGS. 1 to 24) or the frame (e.g., 220 of FIGS. 1 to 24) and configured to detect a biosignal.

[0151] The electrode assembly (e.g., 230 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first electrode (e.g., 231 of FIGS. 1 to 24) positioned in the first housing portion (e.g., 211 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0152] The electrode assembly (e.g., 230 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second electrode (e.g., 232 of FIGS. 1 to 24) positioned spaced apart from the first electrode (e.g., 231 of FIGS. 1 to 24) in the second housing portion (e.g., 212 of FIGS. 1 to 24) and configured to detect the biosignal.

[0153] The electrode assembly (e.g., 230 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a third electrode (e.g., 233 of FIGS. 1 to 24) positioned spaced apart from the housing (e.g., 210 of FIGS. 1 to 24) in the second frame portion (e.g., 222 of FIGS. 1 to 24) and configured to detect a reference signal comparable to the biosignal.

[0154] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first electrode (e.g., 231 of FIGS. 1 to 24) may be positioned between the second electrode (e.g., 232 of FIGS. 1 to 24) and the third electrode (e.g., 233 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0155] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second electrode (e.g., 232 of FIGS. 1 to 24) may be disposed in the housing (e.g., 210 of FIGS. 1 to 24), and the third electrode (e.g., 233 of FIGS. 1 to 24) may be disposed in the frame (e.g., 220 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0156] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second electrode (e.g., 232 of FIGS. 1 to 24) and the third electrode (e.g., 233 of FIGS. 1 to 24) may be positioned in opposite directions with respect to the ear.

[0157] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second electrode (e.g., 232 of FIGS. 1 to 24) may be placed at a first position facing the face with respect to the ear, and the third electrode (e.g., 233 of FIGS. 1 to 24) may be placed at a second position facing the back of the head with respect to the ear.

[0158] The second electrode (e.g., 232 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be positioned to correspond to the zygomatic process.

[0159] The third electrode (e.g., 233 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be positioned to correspond to the mastoid process.

[0160] The housing (e.g., 210 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a plurality of spaced apart insert portions (e.g., 2121 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0161] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second electrode (e.g., 232 of FIGS. 1 to 24) may be coupled to any one of the plurality of insertion portions (e.g., 2121 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0162] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the third electrode (e.g., 233 of FIGS. 1 to 24) may be arranged to be movable along the extension direction of the frame (e.g., 220 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0163] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the third electrode (e.g., 233 of FIGS. 1 to 24) may be rotatably arranged along the perimeter of the frame (e.g., 220 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0164] The frame (e.g., 220 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a hinge (e.g., 224 of FIGS. 1 to 24) that rotatably connects the first frame portion (e.g., 221 of FIGS. 1 to 24) and the second frame portion (e.g., 222 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0165] The second electrode (e.g., 232 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second electrode holder (e.g., 2321 of FIGS. 1 to 24) coupled to the housing (e.g., 210 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0166] The second electrode (e.g., 232 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second electrode portion (e.g., 2322 of FIGS. 1 to 24) having a different material from the second electrode holder (e.g., 2321 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0167] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second housing portion (e.g., 212 of FIGS. 1 to 24) may be inclined with respect to the first housing portion (e.g., 211 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0168] A wearable electronic device (e.g., 200, 300 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a signal processing device (e.g., 243 of FIGS. 1 to 24) connected to the electrode assembly (e.g., 230 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0169] A wearable electronic device (e.g., 200, 300 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a circuit board (e.g., 241 of FIGS. 1 to 24) configured to receive the biosignal from the signal processing device (e.g., 243 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0170] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second housing portion (e.g., 312 of FIGS. 1 to 24) may be movably arranged with respect to the first housing portion (e.g., 311 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0171] A wearable electronic device (e.g., 200, 300 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing (e.g., 210 of FIGS. 1 to 24).

[0172] A wearable electronic device (e.g., 200, 300 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an electrode assembly (e.g., 230 of FIGS. 1 to 24) configured to detect a biosignal.

[0173] The electrode assembly (e.g., 230 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first electrode (e.g., 231 of FIGS. 1 to 24) configured to be positioned corresponding to an ear.

[0174] The electrode assembly (e.g., 230 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second electrode (e.g., 232 of FIGS. 1 to 24) spaced apart in a first direction with respect to the first electrode (e.g., 231 of FIGS. 1 to 24) and configured to detect the biosignal.

[0175] The electrode assembly (e.g., 230 of FIGS. 1 to 24) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a third electrode (e.g., 233 of FIGS. 1 to 24) spaced apart from the first electrode (e.g., 231 of FIGS. 1 to 24) in a second direction opposite to the first direction and configured to detect a reference signal comparable to the biosignal.

[0176] Although the detailed description of this document has described specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of this document.

[0177] While this disclosure has been described by way of example and example, it should be understood that the example is intended to be illustrative and not limiting. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the overall scope of this disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. In wearable electronic devices, A housing (210) including a first housing portion (211) corresponding to an ear and a second housing portion (212) extending from the first housing portion (211); A frame (220) including a first frame portion (221) configured to be connectable to the housing (210) and a second frame portion (222) extending away from the first frame portion (221) toward the second housing portion (212) and arranged so that at least a portion surrounds the ear; and It includes an electrode assembly (230) positioned in the housing (210) or the frame (220) and configured to detect a biosignal, The above electrode assembly (230) is A first electrode (231) located in the first housing portion (211); A second electrode (232) positioned apart from the first electrode (231) in the second housing portion (212) and configured to detect the biosignal; and A wearable electronic device (200) including a third electrode (233) positioned apart from the housing (210) in the second frame portion (222) and configured to detect a reference signal comparable to the biosignal.

2. In paragraph 1, The above first electrode (231) is, A wearable electronic device positioned between the second electrode (232) and the third electrode (233).

3. In either of paragraphs 1 and 2, A wearable electronic device in which the second electrode (232) is placed in the housing (210) and the third electrode (233) is placed in the frame (220).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, A wearable electronic device in which the second electrode (232) and the third electrode (233) are positioned in opposite directions with respect to the ear.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, A wearable electronic device in which the second electrode (232) is positioned at a first position facing the face with respect to the ear, and the third electrode (233) is positioned at a second position facing the back of the head with respect to the ear.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above second electrode (232) is, A wearable electronic device positioned relative to the zygomatic process.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above third electrode (233) is, A wearable electronic device positioned corresponding to the mastoid process.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above housing (210) is Containing a plurality of spaced apart insert portions (2121), The above second electrode (232) is, A wearable electronic device coupled to any one of the above multiple insertion portions (2121).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above third electrode (233) is, A wearable electronic device positioned so as to be movable along the extension direction of the above frame (220).

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above third electrode (233) is, A wearable electronic device rotatably positioned along the perimeter of the above frame (220).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The above frame (220) is A wearable electronic device including a hinge (224) that rotatably connects the first frame portion (221) and the second frame portion (222).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The above second electrode (232) is, A second electrode holder (2321) coupled to the above housing (210); and A wearable electronic device including a second electrode portion (2322) having a different material from the second electrode holder (2321).

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, The above second housing portion (212) is a wearable electronic device that is inclined with respect to the above first housing portion (211).

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, A signal processing device (243) connected to the above electrode assembly (230); and A wearable electronic device including a circuit board (241) configured to receive the biosignal from the signal processing device (243).

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, A wearable electronic device in which the second housing portion (312) is movably positioned relative to the first housing portion (311).

Images